Professional teams sinking their teeth into other communities took the bite out of Vernon Ribest.
The popular summer event alerted the public through its social media pages last week that Ribfest would not be part of the community’s 2024 festival lineup.
In a release issued Monday, May 27, the Vernon Ribfest Society said cancelling the three-day event was due to “circumstances beyond our control.”
“We are disappointed to inform you, that the Ribbers committed to other communities for the 2024 season, without any communication with the Vernon Ribfest Society,” said the release. “We are immensely grateful for your past participation, and look forward to potentially exploring new opportunities in the future.”
Ribfest was held in 2024 at historic O’Keefe Ranch with three professional teams of ribbers taking part. That was up from two teams that participated in the event in 2023, when it was held at Swan Lake Market and Garden.
Ribfest events with professional teams will be held this summer in Kelowna and Kamloops.
The Ribfest society is continuing with plans to host a talent search for up-and-coming youth bands.
The bands will compete for prizes, mentorship, and live performance opportunities.
“We are grateful to funders who have accepted our request to change the date and location (TBA) for the fall of 2024,” said the society.
Watch for details or contact Gail Dawn Basnett, coordinator, at detailsbydesigngf@gmail.com.
READ MORE: Vernon Ribfest dries up for 2024
READ MORE: North Okanagan youth benefit from mental health cycling fundraiser
